A Nigerian agribusiness company, JR Farms, has partnered with the Cross River State Government to develop a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation across the state’s 18 local government areas over the next five years. This initiative aims to enhance the coffee value chain and position Cross River as a significant player in Nigeria’s coffee production.
Olawale Rotimi-Opeyemi, the Founder of JR Farms, stated that the collaboration aligns with the company’s mission to revolutionize agribusiness through sustainable partnerships and impactful investments. He emphasized that coffee production offers substantial opportunities for economic transformation. By leveraging Cross River’s abundant agricultural resources, the partnership seeks to establish a robust coffee value chain benefiting local farmers and the broader economy.
Cross River State’s diverse geography, featuring both highlands and flatlands, along with its temperate climate, fertile soil, and extensive water bodies, makes it suitable for cultivating both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties. The project will commence with the cultivation of Arabica coffee in Boki and Obanliku local government areas, regions known for their highlands and favorable climatic conditions essential for optimal coffee growth.
In preparation for the project’s launch, Rotimi-Opeyemi, alongside the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, and other stakeholders, visited various communities within the state. They engaged with farmers and local authorities to discuss the project’s implementation and its potential benefits.
Acting Governor Dr. Peter Odey met with Rotimi-Opeyemi to deliberate on the initiative. The state government expressed optimism that the project would enhance agricultural output, create employment opportunities, attract investments in the coffee production industry, and position Cross River as a leading producer of high-quality coffee beans in Nigeria.
Commissioner Ebokpo reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting collaborations that drive economic growth and sustainable development. He highlighted that developing a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation would not only boost Cross River’s agricultural economy but also generate jobs for thousands, particularly in rural communities. The government is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote economic diversification.
This partnership between JR Farms and the Cross River State Government underscores the potential of public-private collaborations in advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By focusing on coffee production, the initiative aims to diversify the state’s agricultural portfolio, reduce dependency on traditional cash crops, and tap into the lucrative global coffee market.
The project’s success could serve as a model for similar collaborations across the country, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can drive economic development, create employment opportunities, and enhance the livelihoods of local farmers. As the project unfolds, stakeholders remain optimistic about its potential to transform Cross River into a hub for coffee production in Nigeria and beyond.
